Help me choose a Pixel, please :)

user20583982

I've got these options for now:

Pixel 9a 128Gb 399 euros
Pixel 8 256Gb 499 euros
Pixel 8 Pro 128Gb 599 euros

I've probably broken my brain trying to decide. What are your considerations when choosing a smartphone? Will I benefit from getting a Pro version or are there only bells and whistles reserved for a stock OS? I'd really like to hear your suggestions. Thanks in advance!

tac

user20583982 As a GrapheneOS user you still benefit from the more powerful camera on the 8 Pro and overall higher-end hardware.

However, 128GB storage only can be a bit limiting, especially if you were to use the camera to record videos.

These do not seem like deals of the century. I'd not buy any of them at these prices now.

I suggest you wait until August 20 when the new model is released. The prices for all the earlier models should then go down. In any case, it's unlikely for them to become higher than that.

Even now, you should be able to find a Pixel 9 for the price you listed for the Pixel 8. You'd at least benefit from the upgraded hardware, particularly the radio (note: the 9a uses the previous-generation radio, not in line with the rest of the 9th series).

Grapi

user20583982

Actually, all Pixel 8 models, except the 8a, have a couple of critical hardware issues, such as a fragile display cable. So if you're looking for a phone that lasts longer, the "a" series is your best bet. As for the 9a, there isn't enough repair data available yet to draw conclusions. But overall, the "a" series tends to be more reliable than the non-"a" models, imho.

Check also Pixel 8a 256 GB.

OneKTN816

With the pro you have a extra camera and pro settings in the gcam app. Other than the specs , i think there would be no differences. I suggest you go with 9a since it has longer support (till april 2032).

Bolter79

The 9a might be a good option, I used the pixel 8 for over a year with no problems other then the battery life was not the best

user20583982

I'm myself leaning towards 9a, but just a bit afraid it would feel cheap or smth. I already had Pixel 9 but had to sell it (won't specify reasons). It was probably the stupidest decision of my life...

cleanbowtie

user20583982 I have the 9A and it doesn't feel cheap at all. Feels quick, responsive and as premium as I'd want.

user20583982

But yeah, probably, 9a makes sense for me most. I don't use my phone that much, and with such a huge battery I can just limit charging to 80% at all times and would probably need to replace the battery once during the next 7 years (if I succeed to stick to the same phone for that long).

LGgos

Have a shop around for used, depending on your concerns over battery wear (I don't think they wear that hard these days). Check local second hand goods traders. I picked up an 8 Pro in pristine condition last weekend from a local second hand goods shop for £300 (345 eur approx) and consider that a steal compared to the prices I could find online even for used 8 and 9a.